Puerto Plata

Puerto Plata

Dominican Republic

Ride the cable car up Mount Isabel de Torres for breathtaking panoramic views and a towering Christ statue overlooking the Caribbean coastline.

Currency Dominican Peso (DOP)
Language Spanish
Time Zone AST (UTC-4)
Best Time to Visit Nov–Apr
Typical Duration 7-9 nights
Price Range $309.50-$9,595 per person
Port Type Port of Call
Tender Port Yes

Puerto Plata is a charming Caribbean gateway known for its Victorian architecture, beautiful beaches, and adventure activities like zip-lining and water sports that attract cruise passengers seeking authentic Dominican culture.

Cruises that visit Puerto Plata

Build Your Day in Puerto Plata

Cruise calls are short. Set your ship's arrival time, pick the stops you care about, and we'll show whether they realistically fit before departure.

Ships typically depart around 5:00 PM
Usually about 9 hours ashore
Getting around:
Amber Cove Cruise Port You must go and experience Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.6 · 11k
Ocean World Adventure Park, Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic. Located in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.6 · 8k Closed · Opens 9 AM Thu
Sirena 💛 Nice department store has everything you need but prices are a bit high Supermarket · ★ 4.4 · 6k Open · Closes 12 AM
Puerto Plata Cable Car One of the interesting activities to do in Puerto Plata. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 6k Temporarily closed
Isabel de Torres National Park Must see in the Puerto Plata area when you visit! Tourist attraction · ★ 4.8 · 5k
La Puntilla Park Puerto Plata Dominican Republic Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 5k
Umbrella Street Must see when you visit Puerto Plata Tourist attraction · ★ 4.6 · 4k
Fortaleza de San Felipe This is a must see place when you're visiting Puerto Plata. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.6 · 3k Closes soon · 5 PM
Tio Pan Restaurante Our best eat in Puerto Plata, had to go back for a second time. Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 2k
Taíno Bay Cruise Port, Shore Excursions Great place to spend the day when your ship docks in Puerto Plata, DR. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.6 · 2k
Playa Dorada Shopping Centre A few shops and a few good restaurants with the only movie theater in town. Shopping mall · ★ 3.9 · 2k Open · Closes 11 PM
Waterfront Playa Alicia Restaurant One of the Best Restaurant in Sosúa 🇩🇴🏝️ Restaurant · ★ 4.5 · 2k
La Catalina Best restaurant in Puerto Plata. Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 2k
Paseo de Doña Blanca Very nice place to visit while in Puerto Plata D.R. Historical landmark · ★ 4.7 · 1k
La Carihuela Honestly the best food I've had in Puerto Plata. Restaurant · ★ 4.3 · 1k
27 Waterfalls of Damajagua The best thing to do in Puerto Plata! Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 1k Closed · Opens 8 AM Thu
Malecón de Puerto Plata Loved Puerto Plata. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 1k
Museo del Ámbar Dominicano This is a must-see attraction in Puerto Plata. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.5 · 1k Closes soon · 5 PM
Le petit François Our last night in Puerto Plata and we had to eat here one more time. Grill · ★ 4.4 · 1k
Kviar Show Disco & Casino Puerto Plata Always a fun time to visit this casino when we travel to DR. Bar · ★ 4.2 · 1k
Big Lee's Beach Bar & Grill Big Lee's Beach Bar is a must stop in Puerto Plata. Grill · ★ 4.5 · 1k
Cofresí Beach One of my favorite beaches in Puerto Plata, with very good people there! Tourist attraction · ★ 4.3 · 0k
Bohemios Four from Canada and one being a friend from Puerto Plata. Grill · ★ 4.5 · 0k
Casa Caribe Restaurant I am adding it to my top 20 restaurants in Puerto Plata. Family-friendly · ★ 4.9 · 0k Closed · Opens 6 PM
EDEN LUXURY CLUB Drink cost after wasn’t higher any other bar. Bar · ★ 4.3 · 0k Closed · Opens 6 PM
Taino Bay Puerto Plata Cruise Port Loved visiting Puerto Plata. Cruise terminal · ★ 4.6 · 0k Closes soon · 5 PM
Meclao’ Rooftop Lounge One of the best lounge in Puerto Plata DR Bar · ★ 4.5 · 0k Closed · Opens 6 PM
Los Tres Cocos For me this is by far the best restaurant around Puerto Plata. Restaurant · ★ 4.8 · 0k Opens soon · 5 PM
Sambalu RD One of the best restos in Puerto Plata. Restaurant · ★ 4.8 · 0k
Restaurant Le Papillon The best restaurant in/around Puerto Plata by far. Restaurant · ★ 4.8 · 0k Closed · Opens 6 PM
Galerías del Atlántico Great plaza, has a ton of eating options. Shopping mall · ★ 4.6 · 0k Open 24 hours
Country World Adventure Park We had an amazing time at Country World Adventures in Puerto Plata! Tourist attraction · ★ 4.8 · 0k Closes soon · 5 PM
Taíno Bay Pool & Lazy River However, compared to Porta Plata it's a relative paradise. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.4 · 0k
La Rejoya Overall, La Rejoya Waterfall exceeded my expectations in every way. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 0k
Puerto Plata Excursions Tour operator · ★ 4.5 · 0k
Amber Cove Excursions Love Puerto Plata! Tourist attraction · ★ 4.8 · 0k Closes soon · 5 PM
The Hideout Dine-in·Drive-through Tapas Bar · ★ 4.6 · 0k
Luxury Club Puerto Plata Onsite services Night club · ★ 4.1 · 0k
Canoa Shopping mall · ★ 4.2 · 0k Open · Closes 6 PM
Ámbar lounge Good drinks and Good service. Bar · ★ 4.8 · 0k Opens soon · 5 PM
Terraza Ocean World Dine-in Restaurant · ★ 4.5 · 0k
Umbrella bar 1920 this was my favorite bar in Puerto plata. Bar · ★ 4.8 · 0k
CREW HEAVEN RESTAURANT Great food and beautiful presentation — a must-visit in Puerto Plata! Restaurant · ★ 4.8 · 0k

Opening hours are indicative — always confirm before you go. Travel times are estimates from Google Maps.

Next Departures from Puerto Plata

About Puerto Plata

Puerto Plata stands as a vibrant Caribbean port of call, welcoming cruise passengers from ten major cruise lines including Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, Disney Cruise Line, and MSC Cruises. With nearly 1,000 upcoming cruises calling here, this Dominican destination offers excellent accessibility for travelers seeking Caribbean itineraries. Most voyages are seven-night journeys that combine Puerto Plata with other popular ports like Miami, Port Canaveral, Nassau, and San Juan, making it a natural hub for Eastern Caribbean exploration. The port sees peak activity during the winter months from November through March.

Once ashore, cruise passengers discover a warm welcome and authentic Caribbean charm. The nearby beaches offer pristine sand and turquoise waters perfect for a relaxing day, while the colorful colonial architecture of the town invites exploration. Whether you're looking to unwind or venture out on an excursion, Puerto Plata delivers the tropical Caribbean experience that cruise travelers seek, all within convenient reach of your ship.
Explore

Reasons to Visit

1

Explore Colonial San Felipe Fortress

Step back in time at this 16th-century Spanish fortress overlooking the Atlantic coast. The restored stone structure offers panoramic views of Puerto Plata's coastline and provides fascinating insights into the region's colonial history. It's a short walk from the cruise terminal and perfect for history enthusiasts seeking authentic Caribbean heritage.

2

Savor Fresh Seafood at the Malecón

Stroll along Puerto Plata's vibrant waterfront promenade lined with colorful colonial architecture and local restaurants serving fresh-caught fish and lobster. The Malecón buzzes with energy, offering authentic Dominican cuisine, tropical fruit drinks, and ocean breezes. It's the perfect spot to experience local flavors and Caribbean charm in one afternoon.

3

Cable Car Ride to Isabela Peak

Ascend 2,600 feet via scenic cable car to one of the Caribbean's most breathtaking viewpoints. From Isabela Peak, gaze across lush mountains, pristine beaches, and the sparkling Atlantic Ocean. The round-trip takes about two hours and rewards visitors with unforgettable photo opportunities and refreshing mountain air.

4

Hunt for Treasures at Central Market

Dive into Puerto Plata's bustling Central Market, where local vendors sell handcrafted souvenirs, amber jewelry, and traditional Dominican goods. Haggle for unique pieces like larimar stone jewelry and wooden carvings while experiencing authentic local commerce. This sensory-rich market captures the true spirit of Dominican culture and offers genuine mementos.

5

Swim in Tropical Playa Dorada Beach

Relax on the golden sands of Playa Dorada, Puerto Plata's most popular beach just minutes from the cruise port. Crystal-clear turquoise waters invite swimming and snorkeling, while beachside vendors offer refreshing drinks and local snacks. It's an ideal escape for sun-seekers wanting to experience Caribbean paradise without venturing far.

Cruise Lines at Puerto Plata

Cruises Departing From Puerto Plata

Cruises Visiting Puerto Plata

Ship Schedule at Puerto Plata

Puerto Plata Location

Other Cruise Ports in Dominican Republic

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Puerto Plata known for?

A coastal city known for beaches, the Fortaleza San Felipe fortress, and resort life.

What are the top sights in Puerto Plata?

Fortaleza San Felipe, Playa Dorada, and the historic town center.

How can I reach Puerto Plata?

Fly into Gregorio Luperón International Airport (POP) or drive from Santo Domingo.

When is the best time to visit?

Dry season from November to April; warm tropical weather year-round.